Four-year-olds are still experts at free play. Give them some chalk, some bubbles or a dressing-up box, and they'll be happy.

That said, their concentration is getting better and they're starting to enjoy more structured activities. Most children this age will love joining in a few simple party games.

How many birthday games or activities should I plan?

It's hard to know how long an activity will capture children's attention. Plan for around five or six activities. That way, if one game is a flop or the children lose interest, you can quickly move on to the next.

If you're hosting a party at an indoor play space, the play equipment will keep the children occupied. But you'll create a more memorable experience by incorporating one or two games, too. You could play pass the parcel just before the party tea, or pin the tail on the donkey when guests arrive.

What art and craft birthday activities could we try?

Four-year-olds love an art project, so long as it's uncomplicated. You could:

Make several colours of homemade play dough, then ask the children to create mini birthday cakes. Remind them that these pretend cakes aren't for eating, though.

Buy rolls of cheap lining paper. Lay them out on the floor and get the children to draw around each other, then colour in their faces, hair and clothes.

Supply lolly sticks, cardboard and glue, and help the children to make puppets.

Stick to your party theme. If it's a jungle party, make an animal collage. For a princess party, decorate paper crowns with jewels and sequins. Turn plastic bottles into rockets for a space party, and so on.

Which musical party games appeal to four-year-olds?

Most children this age still love action songs and rhymes. Try "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes", "The Hokey Cokey", "If You're Happy and You Know It", or "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush". Go through the songs first, demonstrating the actions, and then sing together.

Most four-year-olds will be familiar with musical bumps and musical statues. They may get upset, or refuse to leave the floor when they're "out'" though. It might be better to play just for fun than try to pick a winner!

What if children don't want to join in the party games?

Don't expect all the children to take part in the games. Some may wander off, while others might feel too shy to join in. Put out some picture books, some paper and colouring pens and a few toys to keep them occupied.

Is it worth splashing out on a party entertainer?

Possibly, if you're expecting a big group of guests or hope to chat with other parents.

A professional magician or clown will usually keep kids enthralled. Just bear in mind that while some children in this age group find clowns funny, others find them frightening.

Costumes are typically what scare this age group. The children will be most comfortable with someone who isn't heavily disguised with a mask or face paint.

My four-year-old wants a bouncy castle. Is it a good idea?

Children love them, but bouncy castles can be a nightmare for grown-ups. Four-year-olds are very active but their judgement hasn't caught up with their physical ability and they're likely to take too many risks.

If you do decide to go ahead, be sure to have at least two adults supervising at all times. Keep an ice pack, some arnica cream and plasters to hand for minor bumps and scrapes.

If you have a lot of party guests, it might be a good idea to set up one or two other activities alongside the bouncy castle. Divide the children into groups, and let one group have their turn while the others enjoy the car track or play with sponge footballs or explore the dressing-up box.

Last reviewed: February 2013

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